As the smells of pumpkin spice fill the air, and swimsuits are packed alongside sweaters, a fall trip is on your horizon. Conroe is the perfect place to add to the top of your list. Located a convenient 40 miles North of Houston, this lakeside city is full of fall activities to keep you and the family entertained for the entire weekend.

Embark on a Fall Foliage Hike

Collect beautiful red and orange leaves and memories when you hike the miles of trails in Sam Houston National Forest. One of only four National Forests in Texas, this 160,000 acre forest is full of year round hiking, birding, and fishing opportunities. Hiking enthusiasts will leap for joy when they explore a portion of the Lone Star Hiking trail, the 128-mile long dubbed the hiker’s “Jewel of Texas,” that weaves its way through the forest. For those who love to cycle, pack your bike and peddle your way through the fall colored pines on the multi-use trails, and make sure to stop for a photo-op. Conroe is also home to W. Goodrich Jones State Forest where the kiddos can hunt for geocache treasures, and spot endangered Red-cockaded Woodpecker in the towering pines.

Leave Your Worries Behind on Lake Conroe

No trip to Conroe is complete without spending the day on 22,000-acre Lake Conroe. While this lake is bustling in the summer months, the fall time is also an ideal time to explore its tranquil waters. Stop by one of the local retailers to rent your own stand up paddleboard, boat, or jetski as you cruise your way through the water while taking in the picturesque surroundings. Lake Conroe is also a top fishing spot so pack your fishing pole for an afternoon of fishing at Lake Conroe Park. This 13-acre park features fishing piers where you can cast your lines and reel in catfish, crappie, or perhaps a bass. Picnic tables, barbeque pits, and playgrounds are also available. When the Texas sun sets and you want to warm yourself up, the heated pools at Conroe’s Margaritaville Lake Resort await. This Jimmy Buffett inspired resort transforms fall into paradise with spa treatments at the St. Somewhere Spa, an 18-hole golf course, and lakeside dining. Nestled on 186-waterfront shores, cozy up in your lakeside cottage and experience island time all year round at this resort.

Listen to Live Music

Discover your new favorite artist with a night of live music in Conroe. Conroe is a designated Music Friendly Community and you can find music to enjoy almost every night of the week during your visit. Start off your tour of the Conroe music scene in Historic Downtown Conroe at Ferm Meadery where you can sip on locally crafted honey wine while you listen to music. Next on the lineup is The Table at Madeley, a food truck park featuring a variety of vendors and a stage for musicians to play everything from country to 80’s hits. If show tunes is your genre of choice, make sure to check out the Crighton Theatre and the Owen Theatre in Historic Downtown Conroe for musical and concert events. Conroe’s many craft breweries and wineries also offer live music alongside their delicious libations.

For more ideas on all there is to see and do in Conroe, visit VisitConroe.com.